Female Body Concerns / Question
Published: January 9, 2003
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I just started my period about three days ago. Since then, I have noticed a quarter-sized hard lump on the outermost part of my vagina. It seems to be leaking an oily substance but it doesn't seem to be getting any smaller. It is semi-painful, but mentally very painful. I am only 15 and I am very scared, but I am too afraid to tell my parents. Can you please tell me what this may be and how I can get rid of it?
Signed: Lump On Outer Vagina
Dear Lump On Outer Vagina,
TeenHealthFX is glad that you are seeking the answer to a problem that you may be uncomfortable discussing. It's important to take an active role in your health care, and you're doing just that.
What you may be describing is a lump on the folds of tissue that cover the urinary and vaginal openings, known as the labia majora.
The best way to find out what the lump is however, is to see a doctor. This will give you a definitive diagnosis and help you feel better about what's going on. It's certainly not unusual to have anxiety over a new medical problem, especially one involving the genitals. You can go to a doctor and get treated in confidentiality, which means that only you and the doctor will know about your problem and the treatments that may be needed for it.
If you live in Northern NJ, you can call for a confidential appointment with a doctor from the Adolescent/Young Adult Center for Health in Morristown at 973-971-6475. If you're not in NJ, you can call your local Planned Parenthood for an appointment.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
Teens whose parents talk to them regularly about the dangers of drugs are 42% less likely to use drugs than those whose parents don’t, yet only 1 in 4 teens report having these conversations. 
